A quick guide – How to download and use your knitting pattern.

how to use your downloaded knitting pattern(2)
how to download and use your pdf knitting pattern

It’s really convenient that you can get your knitting pattern instantly. Click pay and an email drops into your inbox with a link to your pattern. Great.

This quick guide should help you to get the best from your online knitting pattern and should help with any pitfalls that you may fall into when using it.

Checking you have the right software

All Knitting by Post downloads are in PDF format. This is a widely used file type for documents on the internet. A PDF file cannot be shown by itself and needs some reader software to make the file appear on your computer or device.

You may already have some software on your computer that allows you to read PDF documents as most devices come with a reader installed. If so, that’s great, you don’t need to install any other software.

adobe pdf logo

Adobe is a software company and they originally created the PDF file format. If you cannot read your knitting pattern, it may be that you don’t have the right software. You can get a reader for your computer or device by downloading it from by using the link below. Adobe Acrobat Reader is the reader that will be most reliable and give you the best results.

https://get.adobe.com/uk/reader/otherversions/

Downloading your knitting pattern

Now you have the correct software, the next thing to note is that there are two places to get your download knitting pattern. You can download directly from the website after you pay. You do need to have setup a user account and not use the ‘guest’ login for this to work. If this is the case, you will be directed to your account and download section after payment.

You will also receive two emails after you purchase, one is the email to confirm your order and you will also receive an email with your download details on them.

IMPORTANT : If you don’t receive an email with your download, please check your spam or trash folder, sometimes it ends up there because it is an automated system.

Check the second email that you receive. You will see something like this

Your order is complete screenshot

Click on the link under the “Download” column and your download will begin.

Where your download goes after you click on the link is entirely up to the type of device that you are using. This is not under the control of Knitting by Post. We provide the download PDF file but your device will save it depending on either the default settings or any changes you have told your device to make.

Where has my pattern gone?.. is a very common question that we get asked but the answer is dependent upon your device and out of our control. Here is some general advice.

Usually, to help you out, your device will open the file after you click the download link and show you the knitting pattern. It makes the assumption that you want to look at it right away and so it pops up for you to look at it.

Where your computer, tablet or smartphone saves your file so you can use it later, entirely depends upon your device and settings. Even if you view your file, it is likely that your device has stored the file somewhere too. Are you using a SmartPhone, tablet or computer?

Android SmartPhone / tablet

Android devices have a download folder on the phone and if you haven’t changed where to save them, you can find them there. You will have a files app. Go into there, click on your phone and then the downloads folder. Here is a guide that may help if you can’t find it.

https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-find-downloaded-files-on-android/

Apple devices

If you have an Apple device, the download folder should be where your files go. Again if you have changed this, they will go to the location that it changed to. Here is a guide for Apple users

https://support.apple.com/en-gb/guide/safari/download-items-from-the-web-sfri40598/mac

PC Computer

Downloads go into the download folder. Here is a guide to setting the location to save your files to.

https://support.microsoft.com/en-gb/help/4026331/microsoft-edge-change-the-downloads-folder-location

DON’T FORGET – If you can’t find your file later, you can either go back into your email and download it again from the Knitting by Post website or you can go into the My Account section of the website and get it from there too.

But… My knitting pattern looks odd

Here is some general help for you to troubleshoot your device.

If your knitting pattern doesn’t look right after you look at it on your computer, it is possible to do some troubleshooting to sort it out. Examples of display problems can be duplicated pages, instructions in the wrong order or no display at all. This is likely to be a problem with your device and not the knitting pattern itself. If you are not sure, you can drop us a message at shop@knittingbypost.com if you think that we should check the file.

  1. If you are using the Adobe Reader, you can reset your display settings for the internet. Here is a link that may help you to do this
    https://helpx.adobe.com/uk/acrobat/kb/cant-view-pdf-web.html
  2. Try to view the file using another device – if you are using a SmartPhone, try it on a computer instead.
  3. Make sure you are using the most up to date PDF reader on your device. Download any updates and try it again.
  4. If you have another PDF reader on your device, try to read your file with that instead.
  5. Restart your device and try again
  6. Delete any temporary internet files on your device.

So what else do I need to know?

Now you should have your download and be able to open it up to look at it. Next we are going to look at some of the common pitfalls of using a PDF document that you may fall into when reading a Knitting by Post knitting pattern.

All Knitting by Post knitting patterns are laid out in “Magazine Style”. This means that each page of the knitting pattern has 2 columns

Magasine layout for pages

The pattern is read from top left, to the bottom of the page and then back to the top to read the right hand column. This may not be obvious, especially if you zoom in and read the pattern on a phone or tablet that has a small screen.

So why do we do this?

It is to save paper. Knitting patterns can be really long as they involve lots of instructions and pictures. We want to save as much paper as possible.

Printing your knitting pattern

You may decide to print out your knitting pattern. There are a couple of things to remember when printing.

Print your PDF document using the default options. Don’t make any changes to the printing options – some options can change the layout of your knitting pattern, it can move pictures and in some instances change the order of the knitting pattern. This is the last thing that you want when you are trying to knit, the pattern may not make sense.

Examples of changing the default options are – Printing multiple pages on one page to help save paper. Changing the paper size (All patterns are A4 size – a standard UK paper size). Removing the images and printing the text only. There could be other options too that may affect the print.

If you have to use non-default options, check carefully after you have printed against the pattern that you see on the screen and make sure it is still in order and makes sense before you start knitting.

Hopefully, you will download and use your knitting pattern without any issues or problems. If you do have trouble, hopefully this guide will get you going in the right direction.




How to Read a Knitting Pattern

how to read a knitting pattern

Knitting patterns can seem daunting the first time you look at them, they are written in a code with lots of commas and brackets and look like gobbeldygook. How could you possibly make that lovely toy from something that doesn’t make any sense?

A little knowledge can go a long way and at Knitting by Post we try to make our toy knitting patterns as easy to read as possible. Here is some advice for the best ways to read a Knitting by Post knitting pattern.

It’s all about Abbreviations

All knitting patterns are shortened, it is a way of saving paper so that you don’t have reems and reems of it for one small toy. If you can substitute the shortened words for the longer ones, you will soon understand the pattern better. There are lots of common abbreviations such as “k” which means knit a stitch. This is used on most knitting patterns.

Here are the most common abbriviations we use

  • k – knit
  • p – purl
  • sts – stitches
  • tog – together
  • inc – increase

Let’s have an example. A row on a pattern may say …
Next: (k1, inc1) to end (12 sts)

There are lots of abbreviations on just this one line, let’s explain further.
The word “Next” is literally that. It means complete this bit after the bit that comes before it on the row above.

We will come back to the bracket. Next is the “k” or knit. This means knit one stitch. Usually there will be a number after the letter k. So for example, if the pattern says k4 it means to knit 4 stitches.

After the knit stitch is the “inc1” instruction. The abbreviation “inc” is short for increase. This means that you begin with one stitch on the left needle and when you have completed the stitch, you have two stitches on the right needle. You do this by knitting into the front of the stitch as normal, but don’t remove the stitch from the left needle as you would normally do. Next take the right needle and knit again into the back of the same stitch. Then let the left stitch fall off the needle as normal. You will have made one extra stitch on the right needle (Assumption :You are a right handed knitter)

Back to the brackets “(“. The opening bracket will always have a closing bracket “)”, they come as a pair and if you look further along the example row it is the case here. The closing bracket is after the phrase “inc1”.


Brackets with instructions inside them are repeating sections. In this example, it means repeat the k1, inc1 repeatedly to the end of the row. The words immediately after the brackets will tell you how many times to repeat the stitches. In the example, it says “to end”, so continue repeating the instruction inside the bracket to the end. If you were to write this out in long hand, easy to understand English then it would look like this.

knit1, knit into the front and back of the stitch, knit1, knit into the front and back of the stitch knit1, knit into the front and back of the stitch knit1, knit into the front and back of the stitch”

Can you see how a knitting pattern would be huge if it was written like this? It would also be really difficult to follow too.

Next on the row is “(12 sts)”. The number of stitches (sts) at the end of a row show you how many stitches there should be on your needle after you have completed the row. It helps you to check your work as you go and make sure you haven’t gone wrong somewhere.

Watch out though! There is no universal abbreviation dictionary so something like “kfb” (knit into the front and back of the stitch) is the same as inc1 (increase 1 by knitting into the front and back of the stitch) It may change from designer to designer and pattern to pattern. Always check the abbreviations before you begin so you have a good understanding as you go.

If you can understand the basic knitting abbreviations then you will be able to read any knitting pattern and knit anything you want to. Good Luck.

Customer Makes for February 2019

Our customers are exceptionally tallented. Here is a selection of some of the knitting patterns they used to make toys with. They were shared with us on social media in February 2019.

Sue Tipple says “This is one of my personal favourites”

Get Bumble Baby knitting pattern here

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Buzz into a new knitting project with Bumble Baby! This soft toy bee knitting pattern is a delightful handmade gift

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Hayley Borley says “Custard finally sewn up? “

Get Custard the Rabbit knitting pattern here

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Eggsercise those needles and make Custard the Rabbit.  Hop-Hop along and get this cute bunny knitting pattern.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Ernie Carter made Dangle the Carrot

Get Dangle the Carrot knitting pattern here

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Here is a little rabbit in a carrot sleeping bag.  A quick and easy Easter knitting pattern.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Janet Firmin made

Get Clucky the Hen knitting pattern here

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Clucky the Hen is waddling around the place.  She has room in her wings for lots of chocolate surprises.  Knit one with this leaflet or PDF knitting pattern.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Pauline Mackinney is a rising star.  She made this bunny

Get Baby Bunny knitting pattern here

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

This Baby Bunny is ready for cuddles! A soft and adorable knitting pattern, perfect for Easter gifts, nurseries, or baby showers.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Julie Roberts says
“Knitting by post playful cat,my cousin who’s a teacher asked for a ginger cat for world book day,he’s called Hamish ?”
Get Playful Cat knitting pattern here

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Knit a cat that’s always in a playful mood! This fun soft toy knitting pattern captures a kitten’s mischievous charm.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Helen Chick Morris created Elephant Ballerina

Get Elephant Ballerina knitting pattern here

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

This ballerina elephant is on her tip toes ready for her pirouettes.  Her tu-tu is fixed to her waist and she is complete with ballet slippers.  Make your own with this original knitting pattern.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Sharon Gray has “another one finished”

Get Toby the Chocolate Egg Dog knitting pattern here

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Here is Toby, he is an original, novelty dog knitting pattern. He will hold a chocolate egg in his belly and looks sweet too. A brilliant idea for an Easter gift.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Catherine Allen says “Made this for my great-niece who has her first wobbly tooth xx”

Get My Fairy Lady knitting pattern here

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Sprinkle some fairy magic into your knitting with this adorable soft toy doll. A lovely handmade project for little dreamers.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Jean Allen Edgar says “A mother’s gift “

Get A Mother’s Gift knitting pattern here

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

This mother and child knitting pattern is a small easy and quick to knit character all ready for the coming festive season or as a new baby or Christening gift.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

FREE Reindeer Bauble Knitting Pattern

free reindeer bauble knitting pattern
free reindeer bauble knitting pattern

Yarn : Oddments of double knitting light brown, dark brown, red and black.  Small amount of toy stuffing.
Needles : 3mm single pointed needles
Abbreviations : k – knit, p – purl, st – stitch, st-st – stocking stitch (k1row, p1row),  tog – together, inc—increase by knitting into the front and back of the stitch. 
Tension : 26sts x 33rows = 10cm x 10cm in stocking stitch
Dimensions :  Approx. 7cm wide

It is possible to substitute yarn and needles for similar ones if all materials aren’t available.

Bauble—Make 1
With light brown, cast on 8 sts
Purl 1 row
next: increase into every stitch (16 sts)
Purl 1 row
next: (k1, inc1) to end (24 sts)
Purl 1 row
next: (k2, inc1) to end (32 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Change to dark brown, st-st 12 rows
Next: (k2, k2tog) to end (24 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k1, k2tog) to end (16 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k2tog) to end (8 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight

Sew down the row ends of the bauble.  Add stuffing and seal.  The seam is at the centre back.

Nose—Make 1
With red, cast on cast on 7 sts
Purl 1 row
Next: increase into every stitch (14 sts)
Stocking stitch 3 rows
Next: knit 2 together to end (7 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight

Sew down the row ends, then fold flat with the bound off stitches in the centre front.   Attach nose to the centre of the reindeer’s face.  Sew a smile in black under the nose and two eyes in black 2 sts apart above the nose.

Ears—make 2
With dark brown, cast on 5 sts
knit 3 rows
Next: k2tog, k1, k2tog (3 sts)
knit 1 row
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight

Catch the bottom of the ear together so it is folded in half.  Attach ear to the top of the reindeer head slightly forward of the centre leaving room for the antlers.

Antlers—Make 2
With light brown, cast on 10 sts
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: knit 5, turn and work with these 5 sts only
starting with a purl row, st-st 7 rows
Next: k2tog, k1, k2tog (3 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight
Reattach yarn to remaining stitches and st-st 4 rows
Next: k2tog, k1, k2tog (3 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight

Fold the antlers so there is a long and a short antler.   Sew down the row ends.  Attach to the top of the bauble, one at each side.

Add a loop of yarn to the top centre of the head so it can be hung.

Free Reindeer bauble knitting pattern

Another Sweet Reindeer

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

OhDeer is a little cutie.  He is a smaller design than our other reindeer so he will knit up quick and will be good for little hands.  Make yours now with this pattern.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Even More Patterns

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Here is our Amanda doll knitting pattern.  All set for an outing with her hair in a ponytail and fashionable shoulder cape.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

This long-necked friend is big on charm! Knit your own Raf the Giraffe soft toy, a fun and rewarding project for animal lovers.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Beehold, a pattern for your knitting buzz-tivities. An Easter Honey Bee Gift Bag that's un-bee-lievably easy to make and perfect for all your spring gifting.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Tuck in this tiny tot! Baby Dolly comes with a soft knitted sleeping bag, making bedtime extra cuddly.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Knit a gift bag with personality! This spring-inspired Baggles pattern adds a fun handmade touch to Easter treats or special presents.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Knit an elf that’s full of cheer, with a chocolate orange hiding near.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

FREE Dog Finger Puppet Knitting Pattern

free dog finger puppet knitting pattern
free dog finger puppet knitting pattern

Abbreviations : k – knit. p – purl. st – stitch. tog-together. st-st – Stocking Stitch (k1row, p1row).  inc— increase. Knit into the front and the back of the stitch

Dog Finger Puppet
With 3mm single pointed needles and an oddment of brown, cast on 18 sts
Starting with a knit row, st-st 28 rows
Next: knit 2together to end
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight.

Sew down the row ends. Add a little stuffing to the head end and draw a thread around the neck to seal up the head.

Collar : With an oddment of pink, cast on 23 sts, cast off
Attach collar to the neck.

Ears make 2 : With an oddment of dark brown, cast on 4 sts
Knit 5 rows
Next: (knit 2 together) twice, cast off
Attach ears to either side of the head

Embroider eyes, nose and mouth with a little black yarn that has been split to make it thinner.
Allow the cast on rows to curl upwards.

Free finger puppet knitting pattern

Dog Hero

£6.99

Every pup is a hero, and now you can knit two. This fun and cuddly knitting pattern is perfect for hero lovers and soft toy collectors.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Even More Patterns

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Knit a little bear that’s ready to travel. This pram charm pattern is a sweet way to add a handmade touch to a pram, nursery, or baby shower gift.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

No need to wing it—this seagull knitting pattern is a shore thing! Knit your own seaside bird and fish for a fun and easy toy project.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

No puddles needed—this knitted duck is ready to waddle into your heart! A cute soft toy pattern featuring little boots for extra charm.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

I can hear pitter-patter, I think it might be rein-deer. A toy knitting pattern in a pink and brown theme, another modern take on a traditional reindeer toy.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

No mammoth task here! Knit Grace the Elephant, a cuddly soft toy in a hoodie, perfect for elephant lovers.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Waddle along to this unusual chocolate orange cover knitting pattern. Part chocolate gift and part chick.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

FREE Rocket Knitting Pattern

free toy rocket knitting pattern
free toy rocket knitting pattern

Enjoy this lovely little rocket pattern. It can be made with any odds and ends that you have left. Make a rocket and three thrusters using the instructions below.

Materials : Oddments of blue and yellow double knitting. Small amount of cardboard. A little toy stuffing. 3mm single pointed needles.

Yarn and needles can be substituted for similar alternatives if these items aren’t available.

Abbreviations : k = knit, p = purl, tog = together, sts = stitches, inc = increase by knitting into the front and back of the stitch

Rocket – Make 1
With blue, cast on 8 sts
Purl 1 row
Next: increase into every stitch (16 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k1, inc1) to end (24 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k2, inc1) to end (32 sts)
Purl 3 rows
Sides of rocket, starting with a knit row, st
-st 9 rows
Change to yellow, st-st 4 rows
Change to blue, st-st 3 rows
Next: (k2, k2tog) to end (24 sts)
St-st 5 rows
Next: (k1, k2tog) to end (16 sts)
St-st 3 rows
Next: k2tog to end (8 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight
Sew down the row ends of the rocket.
Add toy stuffing and seal up.

Thrusters – Make 3
With blue, cast on 4 sts
Purl 1 row
Inc1, knit to last st, inc1
Complete the last 2 rows until there are 18 sts
Purl 1 row
Next: k7, (k2tog) twice, k7 (16 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: k6, (k2tog) twice, k6 (14 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: k5, (k2tog) twice, k5 (12 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: k4, (k2tog) twice, k4 (10 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: k3, (k2tog) twice, k3 (8 sts)
Purl 1 row
Cast off

Fold the thrusters in half. Take a little cardboard and trace around the shape. Insert the card inside and sew the edges together. Attach the thrusters to the outside of the rocket at one third intervals and so the bottom of the rocket is slightly above the ground. (see pic)

Free Rocket Knitting Pattern

More out of this world patterns

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

This is probably the cutest alien that you will ever see!   In orange, he is another easy knitting pattern from Knitting by Post.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Here is Lunar, he is an astronaut all ready for space in his space suit.  He has his visor down and anti-gravity boots to keep him firmly on the moon.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Even More Patterns

£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Quick, it's melting!   Here is Gelato the Ice Cream knitting pattern.   He has a big red cherry nose and ice cream hat.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Abracadabra—this knitted wizard is here to bring Halloween fun! A quirky and festive soft toy pattern for spooky Halloween knitting.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Hop into a fun knitting project with this frog hand puppet. Perfect for storytelling, playtime, or just ribbit-ing entertainment for kids and grown-ups alike.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Lovebirds in stitches—knit this adorable wedding bird couple, a perfect handmade gift for weddings, anniversaries, or engagement celebrations.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£6.99

Pig Tails and as Cute as Her Button Nose. Janet the Dolly Knitting Pattern. A5 Booklet

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
£4.49 Download
£4.99 Leaflet

Magic and sparkle, here is an extra special small princess knitting pattern. She has a ball gown and is ready for any big occasion.

This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page

Start a Business Selling your Knitted Toys

Start a Business Selling your Knitted Toys

So you want to start a business knitting toys and selling them? It can be tricky knowing where to start. For a really small outlay it is possible to get going from your kitchen table. Knitting by Post started this way so we have experience of this.

There is so much to do and think about such as getting pricing right, deciding on the right toys to make, postage, sellers fees etc. This guide will hopefully help you to approach your new venture with a logical and ordered way.

  1. Product

    So first things first. What toys do you want to knit and sell? It might sound like an obvious thing to ask and you may well already know but getting a product wrong can stop a small business in it’s tracks.

    If you have an idea, look around on the internet and see what others are selling that is similar. If nobody else is doing it, then ask why not. It could be because there isn’t a market for it but more importantly it could be that you have stumbled on a good idea. The opposite is also true. If there are hundreds of people selling an item then it may be that there is too much competition for your knitted items and you will get lost among all the others.

    £7.49

    Two Christmas Characters in One Knitting Pattern.  Mr and Mrs Santa.

    This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
    £4.49 Download
    £4.99 Leaflet

    Knit a purr-fectly cozy pyjama case that’s as practical as it is cute. A great project for cat lovers and anyone who enjoys adding a handmade touch to their home.

    This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
    £4.49 Download
    £4.99 Leaflet

    Geoff is sitting and waiting for his trip to the Zoo to see his friends. Knit yours today.

    This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
    £4.49 Download
    £4.99 Leaflet

    The Second of the Spring Time Pair. Honey Bee is Short and Sweet.

    This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
    £4.49 Download
    £4.99 Leaflet

    Another One For Your Throne Room. Toilet Roll Covers are Back for the Coronation. King's Guard Toilet Roll Cover.

    This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
    £4.49 Download
    £4.99 Leaflet

    Knit a cat that’s always in a playful mood! This fun soft toy knitting pattern captures a kitten’s mischievous charm.

    This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
  2. Point of difference

    It may sound tricky, especially if you aren’t used to selling yourself or your knitting. What makes you different to the others that you have been looking at already? It could be that you offer a personal service or it could be that you want to use the best materials. Think carefully and then sing it from the tree tops when you get going. If you know what makes you different then you have an advantage over your competition but don’t forget to tell everyone!

  3. Pricing

    It is easy when selling knitted items to under value your work. Don’t do it! You could easily be out of pocket if you sell yourself short. You will also devalue what you are making. The opposite is to charge so much that you don’t sell anything. It is a tricky thing to do.

    There are lots of things to consider when selling your goods and the last thing you want is to be out of pocket. Get a piece of paper and write down exactly what each of the following is going to cost you.

    Materials
    Your raw materials per item. This could be yarn, toy stuffing, safety eyes.

    Your time
    Pay yourself the living wage. If something takes you 2 hours to make then add this to the price

    Costs of selling
    If you sell on a selling platform such as Etsy or Ebay then look carefully at their charges. They often charge a price to list an item and then a percentage of the selling cost on top too. Don’t forget to factor this in, it could wipe out your profit.

    Marketing and Advertising
    Don’t think that this is free. You may decide to sell using social media such as Facebook which is great but it takes up time that you could be knitting with. It is a trade off between advertising and social media marketing. You could put 0 in your budget to start with but you might find that this isn’t enough after a while.

    Shipping
    Include the price of boxes, wrapping, tape, labels as well as postage.

    Handling costs
    Do you go in the car to the post office? You need to price for this too

    Then there’s all the other boring stuff
    You need to factor in electricity while you are working. Wear and tear on your computer, internet access, liability insurance, any travel expenses such as picking up your raw materials. The list can go on.

    Get yourself a business plan. Even if you can’t fill it all in to start with, it is a written statement of what you want to do and what it is going to cost. Review it every week until you get going properly.
    https://www.gov.uk/write-business-plan

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    Egg-cellent Chocolate Hugs from a Cute Duck.  Easter Themed Knitting Pattern

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    A Tall Order For Treats.  The Giraffe Soft Toy Knitting Pattern That Keeps On Giving.

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    A Sweet And Cuddly Bee Toy Knitting Pattern With A Hidden Pocket For Tasty Treats

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    A soft knitted bear that gives warm hugs and holds a chocolate orange. The Bear Chocolate Hugs knitting pattern is a fun and easy project, perfect for Easter or Christmas gifts . Easy to follow with step-by-step instructions.

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    Knit Beeatrix the Beekeeper Dolly with this adorable knitting pattern. BEE-lieve it is true. Great for gifting and collecting.

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    A Hoppy Easter Awaits with the Bunny Chocolate Egg Knitting Pattern! Create a Delightful Bunny Holding a Chocolate Egg for a Fun and Festive Gift.

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  4. Get the legal bits right

    There are three legal considerations if you are in the UK.

    You have 3 months to register with HMRC as a business after you begin trading. As you don’t have to do this straight away, it might be worth delaying until you have to register so you can try your ideas out and see if it works. Don’t forget to do it though!

    Liability insurance is an other must. If you plan to sell on craft stalls, you could get market traders insurance which is cheaper. Liability insurance in the UK is about £10 per month in 2019.

    Lastly there is CE testing. If you plan to sell knitted toys – and some novelty items then CE testing is a must. You can read the UK government guidance using the link below. Certification can be done at no financial cost and is self regulating.

  5. Start small

    Do you research, make one knitted piece, put it up for sale and see what happens. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Be patient, it will build over time.

After all that, don’t be put off by how much there is to do. Many successful businesses start this way. It takes hard work and many hours to start with without pay. You need to be prepared for that, nobody will give you something for nothing. If you get it right though it can lead to a successful small business and financial freedom for you.


Other information that you may find useful

Link to GOV.UK website for registering a business
https://www.gov.uk/set-up-business

CE Marking
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/ce-marking

Health and Safety Executive advice on CE Marking
http://www.hse.gov.uk/work-equipment-machinery/ce-mark-summary.htm


FREE Fairy House Knitting Pattern

free fairy house knitting pattern
free fairy house knitting pattern

The house is made with double knitting yarn, 3mm single pointed needles and small amount of toy stuffing. Although any yarn and needles will work. It is about 5cm tall when finished.

Abbreviations : k – knit. p – purl. st – stitch. tog-together. st-st – Stocking Stitch (k1row, p1row).  inc— increase. Knit into the front and the back of the stitch

House—Make 1
With white, cast on 8 sts
Purl 1 row
Next: increase into every stitch (16 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k1, inc1) to end (24 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 9 rows
Next: k2tog to end (12 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 9 rows
Next: k2tog to end (6 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining
stitches and pull tight
Sew down the row ends, add stuffing and seal up.

Door—Make 1
With pink, cast on 8 sts
Purl 1 row
Next: increase into every stitch (16 sts)
Purl 3 rows
Next: k2tog to end (8 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight
Sew down the row ends and seal up.

Fold flat so the bound off stitches are in the centre of the piece and it is circular. Sew to the front of the house.

Roof—Make 1
With pink, cast on 24 sts
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: k1, k2tog, knit to last 3 sts, k2tog, k1
Complete the last 4 rows until 4 sts remain on the needle. Add a stitch marker at each end of row 14
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight

Sew down the row ends to the stitch markers. Leave the bottom open. Insert the narrow end of the house into the opening. Allow the lower rows to curl outward. Fold the pointed end of the roof over on to itself and secure with a stitch.

© Copyright 2019 Knitting by Post Ltd

Magical Fairies

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Sprinkle some fairy magic into your knitting with this adorable soft toy doll. A lovely handmade project for little dreamers.

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No fairy tale is complete without a little magic! This knitted boy fairy is the perfect partner to the classic fairy soft toy.

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Stretch your creativity with our giraffe knitting pattern – a tall order of fun for your knitting needles!

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Dilly the Dolly Knitting Pattern.  Look, it's a 'plant-tastic' beauty in full 'bloom-ing' glory.

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Here is Emerald, she is on her tip toes and dancing.  Knit your own with this toy knitting pattern.

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Another Sweet and Unique Toy Knitting Pattern.  It is a Bear in a Basket.

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Make a splash with this adorable knitted duck! Perfect for spring, Easter, or any duck lover, this soft toy pattern is an easy and fun knit.

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Knitting pattern instructions to knit Terry the Turtle in his hat. A sweet knitted turtle toy

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FREE Little 2 Needle Stocking

free two needle stocking knitting pattern
free two needle stocking knitting pattern

Here is a two needle Christmas stocking.  It is a free pattern for you to use.

The stocking was made with 3mm single pointed needles and double knitting yarn.  The pattern will scale so you can use chunky or aran yarn as you prefer to make a bigger version.

Abbreviations : k – knit. p – purl. st – stitch. tog-together. st-st – Stocking Stitch (k1row, p1row).  inc— increase. Knit into the front and the back of the stitch

Stocking—Make 1

Stocking Making Step 1

With white, cast on 32 sts
Next: (k1, p1) to end
Complete the last row 14 times in total
Change to main colour
Starting with a purl row, st-st 15 rows
Cast off 16 sts, knit to end (16 sts)

Top of foot
Starting with a purl row, st-st 15 rows

Stocking Making Step 2

Shape toe
Change to white
Next: k2tog, knit to last 2 sts, k2tog
Purl 1 row
Complete the last 2 rows until 6 sts remain on the needle

Next: inc1, knit to the last stitch, inc1
Purl 1 row
Complete the last 2 rows until there are 16 sts on the needle

Sole of foot
Change to main colour
Starting with a knit row, st-st 16 rows

Stocking Making Step 3

Shape ankle
Change to white
Next: k2tog, knit to last 2 sts, k2tog
Purl 1 row
Complete the last 2 rows until 6 sts remain on the needle
Next: inc1, knit to the last stitch, inc1
Purl 1 rowComplete the last 2 rows until there are 16 sts on the needle
Cast off

Assemble the stocking using the diagram for help.

  1. Lay the stocking on a table with the right side down on the table.
  2. Fold the widest part (with the rib)  in half along the length so you can see the right side of the top of the stocking.
  3. Fold the cast off edge (white) down to the partially cast off part (Contrast colour) and sew them together.
  4. Then, take the white toe and ankle and sew the seams together. (see diagram)
  5. You should be able to see the shape of the stocking now.   Sew the rest of the seams together to complete the shape.
Stocking Making Step 4
Assemble stocking
Stocking Making Step 5

Here are some suggestions to customise your stocking …..

Stocking Making Step 6

Make a knitted hanging loop
With your chosen colour, cast on 20 sts
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Cast off.
Fold in half and attach both ends at the top of the stocking in a loop.

Make a twisted cord hanging loop

A twisted cord is made by taking three pieces of yarn approx. half a metre long and fastening one end to a static object for example a door handle. Take the other end of the yarn and twist several times. Then allow the yarn to fold in half upon itself and it will twist. Knot each end to stop the twist from unravelling. Cut to the length desired and attachto the top of the stocking in a loop.

Ribbon Loop

If you don’t want to knit a loop, use a small piece of ribbon to create a hanging loop.

Extra Decorations

It is possible to add other decorative items to the front of the stocking.   Here are some suggestions…

Stocking Making Step 7

Mittens – Make 2
With white, cast on 16 sts
Knit 2 rows
Change to your contrast colour
Next: k7, inc1, inc1, k7 (18 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: k8, inc1, inc1, k8 (20 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: k7, cast off 6 sts, k7 (14 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: k2tog to end (7 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight
Sew down the row ends of each hand and across the thumb. Take the piece of ribbon and insert it into the glove at the side closest to the thumb and secure with a stitch.

Snowballs
With white, cast on 8 sts
Next: (k1, p1) to end
Next: increase into every stitch (16 sts)
Next: (k1, p1) to end
Knit 1 row
Complete the last 2 rows 2 times (4 rows)
Next: (k1, p1) to end
Next: k2tog to end (8 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitch-es and pull tight.
Sew down the row ends, add a little stuffing and seal up.

Attach the snowballs to the end of a twisted cord or ribbon as above and attach so it dangles from the front centre of the stocking.

Holly Leaves – Make 2
With green, cast on 2 sts
knit 1 row
*Next: inc1, inc1 (4 sts)
Next: inc1, k2, inc1 (6 sts)
Next: inc1, k4, inc1 (8 sts)
Next: k2tog, k4, k2tog (6 sts)
Next: k2tog, k2, k2tog (4 sts)
Next: k2tog, k2tog (2 sts)
Repeat all rows once more from *
Knit 1 row
Bind off both stitches

patterns

Customer Makes #4

A Completed Project by Alison Shuttleworth

Bedtime Gnome.

Made Using this Knitting Pattern

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Even gnomes need their rest! This Bed Time Gnome knitting pattern creates a cozy, nighttime-themed plushie.

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Brighten up any bathroom with this collection of toilet roll cover knitting patterns.

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Give your cat a bed they won’t ignore—this snuggly knitting pattern creates a soft and warm spot for endless catnaps.

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Knit your own fishing adventure! This soft toy knitting pattern includes a bear in waders and his impressive goldfish catch.

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A real egg-stravaganza! This Easter knitting booklet includes patterns for fluffy hens, chirpy chicks, and a proud rooster.

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Frosty fun without the cold—this knitted snowman soft toy is great for cuddles, Christmas displays, or handmade presents.

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An original and unusual design. Take two 10cm baubles and knit your own standing Santa or Elf. An easy to knit and fun Christmas decoration.

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Customer Makes #3

A Completed Project by Alison Doughty

Early l know.

Made Using this Knitting Pattern

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Deck the halls with a knitted Christmas tree! This unique pattern lets you create a festive, handmade tree with individually attached leaves.

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Knit an elephant that never forgets to keep things tidy. A lighthearted and practical bathroom decor project.

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Why choose one when you can knit all three? This soft toy knitting pattern lets you create a cat, rabbit, and dog for triple the fun.

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There’s gnome one quite like Gnorma! This adorable knitting pattern creates a cute gnome soft toy, perfect for Christmas, gardens, or craft fairs.

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Easter Will Soon be Here. Go Egg Hunting with a Little Easter Basket

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Waddle along to this unusual chocolate orange cover knitting pattern. Part chocolate gift and part chick.

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Squeak your way into adorable knitting with Biscuit the Mouse! This charming knitted mouse soft toy comes dressed in trousers and a waistcoat—an easy and fun project

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Customer Makes #2

A Completed Project by Cindy Abbey Richards

Early start for winter, love making these

Made Using this Knitting Pattern

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Let it snow—indoors! This knitted snowball is a fun and festive Christmas project, great for decorations and gifting fun.

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This rabbit placemat and cup holder knitting pattern adds a cozy, personal touch to any table setting. Perfect for everyday use or special occasions like Easter.

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Bringing Extra Cheer to Your Christmas Tree.  3 Different Size Hanging Elf Decorations in One Pattern

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Have fun with Frankenstein. Another cute knit all ready for the Halloween season. He is made with double knitting. He makes a great friend to the Wizard and Witch Festive Friends.

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Rise and shine with Robert the Rooster! A fun Easter knitting pattern with a chocolate egg surprise.

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A stitch in time—Tommy the Soldier toy is a knitted tribute to history, perfect for remembrance displays.

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Move over, Elf—this Snowman on a Shelf is here to chill. A fun and festive knitting pattern perfect for holiday decorating or gifting.

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